The EFL has confirmed that the Championship play-off final is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, with a kick-off time of 4.30pm, but has warned that the fixture could be postponed or altered depending on the outcome of the disciplinary hearing into Southampton's alleged spying on Middlesbrough.
The hearing, conducted by an Independent Disciplinary Commission of three legal experts, is expected to take place on or before Tuesday, May 19. The EFL stated that the commission will issue its decision as soon as possible after considering the submissions and evidence, but the league does not control the timetable.
Southampton are accused of sending a staff member to film Middlesbrough's training session two days before the first leg of their play-off semi-final, which ended 0-0. The Saints won the tie 2-1 on aggregate to set up a final against Hull City.
The uncertainty has caused a nightmare scenario for supporters planning to attend the final at Wembley. Both Hull and Southampton have delayed releasing ticket information, with just nine days until the fixture. The EFL urged fans to pay attention to terms and conditions when purchasing tickets and to consider the situation when booking travel and accommodation.
The EFL added that it has a number of contingency plans in place, including consideration of any appeal process, should the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings require changes to the fixture. The league continues to plan on the basis that the final will take place as scheduled, but supporters should be aware that changes remain possible.
